Megan Rapinoe named Sports Illustrated’s 2019 Sportsperson of the Year

SEATTLE — U.S. Women’s National Team member and Reign FC captain Megan Rapinoe has been named Sports Illustrated’s 2019 Sportsperson of the Year, the magazine announced Monday.

Rapinoe is the fourth woman in the award’s history to win it by herself, the magazine noted.

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“This year, Megan Rapinoe was a galvanizing force on a team that is now looked up to by any woman who doesn’t want to be told she’s come far enough, who’s taking matters into her own hands,” Sports Illustrated said in a tweet. Rapinoe is featured on the cover holding a sledgehammer.

She responded to the tweet saying, “I couldn’t have done it without the fans. This award is for all of you.”

Rapinoe led the U.S. Women’s National Team to a World Cup title in July, scoring six goals in the tournament.

The soccer star has been outspoken on issues on equal pay and racial and social justice, gaining attention earlier this year when asked by a reporter if she would go to the White House if invited by President Donald Trump.

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“I’m not going to the f------ White House. No, I’m not going to the White House. We’re not going to be invited….,” Rapinoe says, in part, in an interview.

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